Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a rich, comforting dish that combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce.
This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
The dish starts with seasoned ground beef, browned to perfection, then combined with a luscious sauce made from butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
The garlic infuses the sauce with deep, savory notes, while the Parmesan adds a nutty, slightly salty richness. Rotini pasta is the perfect choice for this recipe because its spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
What makes this dish even better is its versatility. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes, or even kick up the heat with red pepper flakes.
Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with a crisp salad and garlic bread for a complete dining experience.
With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a crowd-pleasing favorite that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Description
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a hearty, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender ground beef, al dente rotini, and a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
The sauce, made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, coats the pasta perfectly, creating a comforting and indulgent meal.
Seasoned with Italian herbs and a touch of black pepper, this dish balances savory, cheesy, and garlicky flavors.
Ideal for weeknight dinners, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with vegetables or red pepper flakes for extra zest.
Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
-
Sauté Garlic:
Add butter and minced garlic to the beef, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Make the Sauce:
Pour in beef broth, heavy cream, and milk. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
-
Combine:
Add cooked rotini to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
-
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 700kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Total Carbohydrate 37g13%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Protein 32g64%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Tips & Serving Tricks for Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Cooking Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture
- Choose the Right Beef: Use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) for a balance of flavor and minimal grease. If using ground sirloin, the dish will have a richer taste with less fat. For a more tender texture, try thinly sliced steak like sirloin or ribeye.
- Season in Layers: Start by seasoning the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder while browning. Then, add additional seasonings like Italian herbs, paprika, or red pepper flakes to enhance depth.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook rotini 1-2 minutes less than package instructions if you plan to mix it with the sauce. This keeps it from turning mushy while absorbing the sauce’s flavors.
- Use Fresh Garlic for Best Flavor: While garlic powder works in a pinch, fresh minced garlic sautéed in butter gives a more aromatic, rich, and savory flavor.
- Creamy Parmesan Sauce Perfection:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged for a smoother, meltier sauce.
- Stir in heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a mix of milk and cream cheese for an extra luscious consistency.
- A bit of reserved pasta water can help emulsify the sauce, making it cling to the pasta better.
Serving Tricks for Maximum Enjoyment
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Top with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and taste. If you like a little crunch, toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions can elevate the dish.
- Make it a One-Pot Meal: After cooking the beef, add the uncooked rotini directly into the sauce with broth or milk. Simmer until the pasta absorbs the liquid, creating an easy, no-drain meal with even more flavor.
- Pair with the Right Sides: Since this dish is rich and creamy, balance it with a light side salad, roasted vegetables (like Brussels sprouts or asparagus), or garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
- Make it Spicy or Zesty: Add chili flakes, cayenne, or diced jalapeños for a kick. A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine in the sauce can brighten the flavors.
- Serving Portions & Storage:
- Portion size: Serve about 1.5 cups per person for a hearty meal.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore the creamy texture.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly on the stovetop, stirring frequently.
With these tips, your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce will turn out creamy, flavorful, and satisfying every time!
Pin this recipe to share with your friends and followers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of beef is best for this dish?
For the best texture and flavor, ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio) or thinly sliced sirloin works well. Ground beef is quick to cook and absorbs the garlic parmesan sauce nicely.
If using sirloin or steak strips, sear them for added depth of flavor before combining with the sauce and pasta.
How do I make a creamy and flavorful garlic parmesan sauce?
To create a rich and creamy garlic parmesan sauce, start by sautéing minced garlic in butter until fragrant. Then, add heavy cream, milk, or half-and-half for a smooth consistency. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt completely.
For extra flavor, season with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth to thin it out.
Can I make this dish ahead of time or store leftovers?
Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When reheating, add a little milk or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. If making ahead, cook the pasta slightly al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.
You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, but note that the sauce may slightly change in texture after thawing.
